Species information

Category

Statistics

Length: 3.5-4.5cm
Wingspan: 20-25cm
Weight: 5-9g
Average lifespan: up to 30 years

Conservation status

Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. European Protected Species under Annex IV of the European Habitats Directive.

When to see

April to October

About

Formerly a cave-dweller, the lesser horseshoe bat now tends to roost in old houses, churches, stables and barns. All UK bats are nocturnal, feeding on midges, moths and other flying insects that they find in the dark by using echolocation. Lesser Horseshoe Bats feed among vegetation in lowland valleys, rarely flying more than five metres above the ground. They may take large prey back to a roost or perch. From May, mixed-sex maternity colonies are formed, and the females have a single pup. Lesser Horseshoe Bats hibernate over the winter in caves, disused mines, tunnels and cellars.

How to identify

One of our smallest bats, the lesser horseshoe bat is the size of a plum. Like the Greater Horseshoe Bat, it has a characteristically fleshy nose that is shaped like a horseshoe. Its fur is grey-brown on its back and white underneath.

Distribution

Confined to Wales, western England and western Ireland.

Habitats

Did you know?

The generic name of the lesser horseshoe bat, rhinolophus, is derived from the Greek meaning 'nose crest'; the specific name,hipposideros,means 'horse-iron' or horseshoe. This name refers to the complex noseleaf of this bat, which is thought to focus the echolocation pulses that it emits to find its prey.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices. By working together, we can create Living Landscapes: networks of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.